A sunny afternoon saw us making a trip to the Royal Victoria Country Park, formerly the site of the British Army’s first purpose built military hospital. The Chapel is the only remaining building and now includes a café in addition to the heritage museum.
We stopped for refreshments and I thought to ask the young lady on duty if she would like to participate in my strangers' project. We were the only customers and she did seem a little bored and was very pleased to be asked. (For my part it was so good to have my request received with such enthusiasm!) I explained the project and she told me she had achieved A-level Photography but 'we never did anything like that.'
I introduced myself and found that her name to be Mary. She was a natural subject, so quick to understand what I asked in terms of 'posing' and I loved her pink hair. She explained she had had highlights put in and later used the pink colour over them. Her ambition is to be a hairdresser or a barberer or even a make-up artist.
Mary used to work in the other café in the Country Park and began working in this one when it opened at the beginning of August. She also currently has some hours of work in a pub.
We talked more about photography and I found Mary enjoys photographing people. Her interest in architecture led her to complete an A-level module on steps - different steps with yellow warning lines.
Music is another passion for Mary and she often goes to gigs. She can play the flute.
I gave Mary a card and she has already been in touch to receive some photos. All very best wishes to her in achieving her goals.
We said good-bye and carried on in the park to visit the war graves cemetery and the shore line of Southampton Water.
Mary looks a pretty friendly girl, lovely smile & great teeth, I hope she achieves all she hopes for! You might have encouraged her to get her camera out again!
